At Kuenselphodrang’s month-long empowerment, devotion is extending well beyond prayers. A group of devotees has found their source of enlightenment in serving others. While thousands gather each day to receive spiritual blessings, the group begin their day long before sunrise to ensure that every devotee is fed and cared for.
Every morning, almost 45 veteran army personnel and 7 staff of Yusipang National Centre for Organic Agriculture are among the first to arrive.
Working over traditional firewood stoves, they prepare rice, tea, and curry for nearly 25,000 on weekdays and for over 30,000 devotees on weekends.
The work is physically demanding, requiring hours of coordination and teamwork. Yet for the volunteers, their service during the sacred event is an opportunity to accumulate merit.
“As army veterans and elderly volunteers, we feel fortunate to have this opportunity to serve. It is a blessing to be able to serve even a few hundred people, so being able to serve more than 30,000 devotees fills us with pride,” said Dophu, a veteran army cook.
The effort extends beyond the kitchens. 59 women volunteers, wives of army personnel from Lungtenphu, spend hours peeling and cutting vegetables, ensuring the kitchens have a steady supply of fresh ingredients. Together, they work seamlessly behind the scenes, driven by a shared commitment to serve.
Once the food is ready, De-Suups and monks take over, serving tea, rice, and curry to thousands of devotees. Their coordinated effort ensures meals are distributed efficiently, allowing the large gathering to continue without interruption.
Another group of 37 volunteers work just as tirelessly. Throughout the day, they clean the tents, collect waste, and maintain the toilets used by thousands. They say keeping the facilities clean is their way of supporting the devotees and receiving blessings.
“We are cleaning with sincere devotion from the depths of our hearts. Cleaning this sacred site gives us a strong sense of purpose and motivation,” said Kinley, a volunteer with the toilet management.
“It is rare to get such an opportunity to serve. While volunteering, I am able to work with my hands and listen to the teachings at the same time. Believing that this will help me accumulate merit, I decided to volunteer,” said Dawa Tshering, a volunteer who is helping with waste management.
Kinley Penjor, who coordinates water, cleanliness and hygiene, said, “Regardless of the time of day or night, they are always willing to serve. The cleanliness here has improved significantly compared to the past, and we will continue to offer our services.”
For these volunteers, service goes beyond preparing meals or cleaning the grounds. Every meal cooked, every plate served, and every corner cleaned is an offering made with humility and compassion.
Kelzang Chhophyel
